Discover, Appreciate, & Understand the Animal World!
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We believe that if people know more about the world’s creatures they will better care for them. That’s why we add new animals for you to discover – each and every day! Learn about any animal using the search box below or subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Also, be sure to check out our growing list of Animal Quizzes and Web Stories.
Discover Your Favorite Animal Today!
Latest from A-Z Animals
The Oldest Building in Idaho Is Still Standing After 170 Years
The United States has a fascinating history that spans hundreds of years. As the United States expanded its territory westward, the settlers that went to those western territories found themselves… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 2 mins ago
Discover the Largest King Salmon Ever Caught
The largest King salmon ever caught by an individual was a 97-pound whopper! Les Anderson reeled in the giant in 1985 on Alaska's Kenai River. It remains the world record… Read More
By Katie Melynn Wood 8 mins ago
Velociraptor vs Tiger: Who Would Win in a Fight?
Velociraptors gained a fair amount of popularity due to the Jurassic Park film series. They’re portrayed as incredibly smart, deadly hunters. However, that depiction is not all that accurate. That… Read More
By Kyle Glatz 32 mins ago
North Pole vs. South Pole: Discover 5 Key Differences Between These Frigid Spots
The North Pole and the South Pole are located at the extremes of the Earth and are the coldest places in the world. Both are incredibly important places as they help… Read More
By Hannah Ward 33 mins ago
The 5 Largest Alligators Ever Found in Lousiana
The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is one of the most well-known large reptiles in the United States. On average, males reach about 15 feet long and weigh between 400 and… Read More
By Stephanie Heath 1 hour ago
Texas’s Population Has Exploded 160% in 50 Years…10 Reasons Why People Move to the Lonestar State
Have you ever thought about moving to Texas? If you have, you are not alone. The state’s population has seen significant growth in the last 50 years. Known for its… Read More
By Sharon Parry 2 hours ago
10 Most Traveled Bridges in South Carolina In Desperately Poor Condition
South Carolina has a population of about 5 million. South Carolina is a coastal state. It achieved statehood in 1788. South Carolina's bridges cross many waterways in small towns and… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 2 hours ago
The 10 Largest European Countries Today and in 50 Years
Europe is made up of 50 countries. Russia is the largest country in Europe, and Vatican City is the smallest. Some assume there are only 44 countries in Europe because… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 2 hours ago
9 Reasons North Carolina Is the Ideal Spot for Deer Hunting in the U.S.
Looking through the crosshairs of a scope at a young buck in the woods During the North Carolina deer season of 2021–2022, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reported that hunters… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 2 hours ago
The 7 Main Types of Animals And Their Characteristics
There are many different types of animals in the world, but some of the largest categories include:
Mammals
The official mammal class is Mammalia. Animals that are considered mammals include warm-blooded vertebrates that have hair or fur and whose babies drink milk. Unlike other animal types like birds and insects, all mammal babies drink milk that comes from their mother’s bodies. This is one of the key ways to know if an animal is a mammal.
See the complete list of mammals.
Reptiles
Lizards, dinosaurs, crocodiles, turtles, and snakes – all belong to that ancient and stout class of animals known as the reptiles. This is a diverse group with more than 10,000 different species and a huge representation in the fossil record. Once the dominant land vertebrates on the planet, reptiles still occupy just about every single ecosystem outside of the extreme north and south.
See the complete list of reptiles.
Fish
Fish are aquatic vertebrates. They usually have gills, paired fins, a long body covered with scales, and tend to be cold-blooded. “Fish” is a term used to refer to lampreys, sharks, coelacanths and ray-finned fishes, but is not a taxonomic group, which is a clade or group containing a common ancestor and all its descendants.
See the complete list of fish.
Birds
Birds, members of the class Aves, include more than 10,400 living species. Their feathers distinguish them from all other classes of animal; no other animals on earth have them. If you see an animal with feathers, it’s undoubtedly a bird. Like mammals, birds are warm-blooded vertebrates with four-chambered hearts. However, they are more closely related to reptiles and are believed to have evolved from dinosaurs.
See the complete list of birds.
Amphibians
The official class of amphibians is Amphibia. To have the classification of an amphibian, an animal must be a vertebrate, require water to survive, be cold-blooded, and spend time both on land and in water. Though other animals only live on land or in the water, amphibians have the unique ability to thrive equally in both. Amphibians cover over 6,000 different species across the globe, but about 90% are frogs.
See the complete list of amphibians.
Invertebrates
The definition of an invertebrate is any animal that does not have a backbone or vertebral column. The most prolific and easily recognizable members of the invertebrate family are insects. It’s estimated that upwards of 30 million individual species of invertebrates may exist accounting for between 90-95 percent of all organisms on the planet.
See the complete list of invertebrates.
Insects
All insects are part of the taxonomical phylum Arthropoda, and they are collectively referred to as arthropods. It is common to see this name misspelled as “anthropod,” but this is not the correct term. They can be found in nearly every environment on the planet, and they currently account for over half of all known living organisms in the world. They have undergone many cycles of evolution depending on the resources available to them.
See the complete list of insects.
Explore Types of Wild Animals from Around the World
We track thousands of animals from every continent and corner on earth, and are adding more every day!
- African Animals – Africa is home to some of the most incredible and dangerous animals in the world.
- Asian Animals – Asia has the world’s longest coastline, and an amazing diversity of exotic animals, birds, and more.
- Central American Animals – Discover the the nearly 400 different animals we track in Central America today.
- Eurasian Animals – Eurasia has some of the rarest animals in the world, like Siberian Tigers and Snow Leopards.
- European Animals – We track over 500 different animals in Europe, including wolves and bears.
- North American Animals – North America has many beautiful national parks that house some of the rarest animals on earth.
- Marine (Ocean) Animals – The ocean is teaming with life, from the smallest shrimp to the largest animal ever – the Blue Whale!
- Oceanian Animals – Oceania has many islands, and the world’s highest concentration of marsupials.
- South American Animals – Home to the stealthy Jaguar, the friendly Capybara, and many more!
See Endangered and Extinct Animals Lists
A-Z Animals follow’s the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species definitions of threatened and endangered animals. Please consult the lists below to learn more about which animals need our help the most
- Extinct – Species that no longer exist on earth
- Extinct in the Wild – Species that are only known to survive in captive or cultivated environments
- Critically Endangered – Animals that face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild
- Endangered – Animal species that face a high risk of extinction in the wild
- Vulnerable – Animal species that face a risk of extinction in the wild
- Near Threatened – Species that are facing population challenges and likely to become vulnerable to extinction soon
- Least Concern – Animals with strong populations that are not expected to face extinction risk in the near future
- Data Deficient – Species where we lack adequate information to assess the risk
- Not Evaluated – Animal species that have not been evaluated yet
Types of Animals By Letter: Explore A to Z Animal Lists
See lists of animals that start with every letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. We track all types of animals like lions and tigers, dogs and cats, even dinosaurs and spiders. Choose your favorite letter below to see all animals that start with it today.
Animals that Start with A
Example: The Aidi
Animals that Start with B
Example: The Brachiosaurus
Animals that Start with C
Example: The Chilesaurus
Animals that Start with D
Example: The Dalmatian
Animals that Start with E
Example: The Eurasier
Animals that Start with F
Example: The False Cobra
Animals that Start with G
Example: The Golden Retriever Mix
Animals that Start with H
Example: The Hippopotamus gorgops
Animals that Start with I
Example: The IMG Boa Constrictor
Animals that Start with J
Example: The Jaguarundi Cat
Animals that Start with K
Example: The Kinder Goat
Animals that Start with L
Example: The Lesser Scaup
Animals that Start with M
Example: The Moray Eel
Animals that Start with N
Example: The Nubian Goat
Animals that Start with O
Example: The Okapi
Animals that Start with P
Example: The Pugshire
Animals that Start with Q
Example: The Quokka
Animals that Start with R
Example: The River Otter
Animals that Start with S
Example: The Smallmouth Bass
Animals that Start with T
Example: The Treehopper
Animals that Start with U
Example: The Utonagan
Animals that Start with V
Example: The Volpino Italiano
Animals that Start with W
Example: The Welsh Terrier
Animals that Start with X
Example: The Xenoceratops
Animals that Start with Y
Example: The Yellow Anaconda
Animals that Start with Z
Example: The Zokor
Everything To Know About Pet Dogs, Cats Birds, and More
Some of the most popular types of animals on earth are pets. A pet is a domesticated animal that lives with a person or family, usually in a house. The most common pets include dogs, cats, fish, and birds, but there are also many amazing exotic pets like reptiles, lizards, and more! Horses, goats, and pigs can also be pets too.
Pet Dogs
Dogs are the most popular type of pet on earth with nearly 500 million worldwide. Thats almost one dog for every 15 people on earth! There are hundreds of different dog breeds. The Irish Wolfhound is the largest dog breed, and was bred to hunt wolves. Chihuahuas are the smallest, and were likely bred for companionship or to hunt small rodents. The most popular dog breeds are below.
Irish Setter
Has a beautiful coat that's flowing and feathered!
Boston Terrier
Friendly, lovable and very strong!
Golden Retriever
Trusting, kind and gentle!
Pet Cats
Cats are the second most popular pet on earth with nearly 400 million worldwide. Thats almost one pet cat for every 20 people on earth! You can read about the hundreds of different cat breeds, from the large to the small. The most popular cat breeds are below
Abyssinian
One of the oldest cat breeds in the world!
Australian Mist
The only cat breed to originate in Australia.
Ragdoll
One of the larger breeds of domestic cat!
Pet Product Reviews
Pets are important members of our families and should be cared for. The AZ Animals team reviews the latest research on pet health, consults veterinarian best practices, and works directly with vet health specialists to review the best products for your dog, cat, and other pets. We’re excited to share our expert pet product recommendations with you, including the best dog food, best cat food, and best tanks for your pet fish
More Animal News, Facts, Rankings, and More!
Sea Lion Size Comparison: Just How Big Do These Animals Get?
Big, majestic, whiskered aquatic animals that are graceful in the water and awkwardly floppy on land, sea lions are from the pinniped family and live in climates ranging from subarctic… Read More
By Adam Segaller 2 hours ago
The Top 7 Reasons Why The United States Has the Best Skiing in the World
If you are in the United States and want to ski, there are many amazing options for you if you wish to hit the slopes. Moreover, there are numerous reasons… Read More
By Rob Hayek 2 hours ago
Cheetahs Show Just How Fast You Have to Be to Catch an Impala!
Viewer discretion advised for strong language. Cheetahs have a well-earned reputation for being both fast and agile. In this brief clip, we see both skills on display. Two cheetahs have… Read More
By Sharon Parry 3 hours ago
See This Large Monitor Lizard Wade Through the Mud Looking for Crocodile Eggs to Eat
When we think of Africa and the animals that are present, it’s easy to think of the Big Five. The Big Five animals that are well known are lions, buffalo,… Read More
By Hannah Crawford 3 hours ago
Watch an Elephant Stand On Its Hind Legs To Reach Its Food
Have you ever had something just outside of your grasp that you couldn’t reach no matter how hard you tried? And no we don’t mean the metaphorical million dollars we… Read More
By Hannah Crawford 3 hours ago
7 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in Arizona
The winter season brings joy, mirth, and personalized presents to the forefront of commercial America. While it doesn’t often bring snow to the Grand Canyon State, it does bring some… Read More
By Katarina Betterton 3 hours ago
Discover The 10 Largest Ice Skating Rinks In Vermont This Winter
Vermont is the perfect state for winter activities like ice skating. Winter sports are a natural part of life in Vermont. Vermont ice skating rinks provide safe places where everyone… Read More
By Lisa Bohler 4 hours ago
See the World’s Largest Land Animals Wrestling in the Dead of Night
Water is a necessity that both humans and animals need for survival. However, that’s not all water is good for! In addition to hydration, animals from all over the world… Read More
By Hannah Crawford 4 hours ago
Can Scorpions Swim? 10 Facts About How They Handle Water
Scorpions — native creatures to deserts, rainforests, and grasslands across the world — have an interesting relationship with water. This arachnid, not unlike its spider and mite cousins, doesn’t use its… Read More
By Katarina Betterton 5 hours ago
Tibetan Spaniels: Common Facts and Health Problems
The Tibetan Spaniel is a joyful, affectionate dog type that also makes an ideal companion animal. If you're looking to bring a canine into your life, and are unsure of… Read More
By Zoe Carina 7 hours ago
How Do Shark Hunt? 4 Impressive Strategies They Use
Living fossils and apex predators, many species of sharks feature body plans and hunting strategies practically unchanged for hundreds of millions of years. Their ability to detect the electrical fields… Read More
By Cammi Morgan 12 hours ago
Where Is Waco? Map Location and Proximity to Other Texas Cities
Today, we visit a city that lives in more in infamy than in fame. Waco, Texas, the birthplace of Dr. Pepper, is best known for the Waco siege. The city… Read More
By Telea Dodge 14 hours ago
How Tall Is Mount Greylock in Massachusetts?
Mount Greylock in Massachusetts has a long and rich history spanning centuries. It’s located in a geologically distinct area of New England and inspired generations of famous authors. But does… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 14 hours ago
Are Cocker Spaniels the Most Troublesome Dogs? 9 Common Complaints About ThemÂ
Common complaints about cocker spaniels include that they shed too much, their coats mat easily, they bark excessively, they chew things they shouldn’t, and they can’t be left alone. Some… Read More
By Katelynn Sobus 14 hours ago
Can Cactus Survive Winter? 10 Tips for Making It Through Winter
Cacti are succulents and as such they store water in their roots, leaves, and stems. Cold-hardy cacti grown successfully in northern areas have many of the same requirements as in… Read More
By Joanne Paiva 15 hours ago
Discover How 6,000 Reindeer Disappeared from St. Matthew Island
St. Matthew Island is an uninhabited, remote place in Alaska, where very few mammals can survive. This island features freezing-cold conditions and is hundreds of miles away from the nearest… Read More
By Erica Scassellati 15 hours ago
6 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in Canada
Christmastime is one of the happiest times of the year. Throughout most of the world, cities and countries get ready for the joyous holiday. Families start buying presents, schools start… Read More
By Patrick MacFarland 17 hours ago
See This Pelican Open Its Bill Like a Bucket to Catch a Flying Fish
Filmed off the coast of Namibia, this unique footage gives us a slow-motion view of a pelican opening its huge bill and snagging a fish in midair. The ingenious bird… Read More
By Sharon Parry 17 hours ago
These 10 Dog Breeds Can’t Handle Cold Temperatures
When winter weather starts to roll around, some dog breeds are far more excited than others. It's not uncommon to see a pooch or two strutting around fully clad in… Read More
By Sam Hindman 17 hours ago
Discover the Meaning of Jupiter in Capricorn
As many of us begin to dive deeper into the world of astrology, we find there is so much more to learn! Once you’ve analyzed your Sun, Moon, and Rising… Read More
By Volia Schubiger 17 hours ago
See all of A-Z Animals News and Information.
Animal Reference Guides And Educational Resources
We believe if people are more educated about the world’s animals, they will better car for them. That’s why we are building the world’s greatest animal encyclopedia, completely free to you. Please take a moment to learn more about animals today using these helpful guides and resources:
- Reference Library – See helpful information on conservation, classification, animal evolution, and more
- Glossary – A list of scientific and technical animal terms, with definitions
- Animal Habitats – Learn all about different animal habitats
- Diet – The different animal diets like omnivores, herbivores, and carnivores defined with examples
- Behavior – Learn all about animal intelligence, communication, community, language, migration, and more.
Animal Encyclopedia With Facts, Pictures, Definitions, and More! FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the 6 types of animals?
The 6 types of animals are mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and invertebrates. Additionally, animals are classified in many different ways, which you may learn about in this complete guide to animal classification.
What are the 10 most popular animals?
The 10 most popular animals on AZ Animals are:
How many animals are there?
There are over 1 million known animal species and more than 98% of those are insects, which are indeed animals.
